The song Soda And Salt by James McMurtry is about a rebellious, curious and independent-minded individual who questions the norms and rules of society. The song opens with the character feeling sick after swallowing something unknown. This is symbolic of his desire to explore and experiment with different ideas that challenge the status quo. The character is also depicted as being inquisitive and creative, as shown by his desire to share his discoveries with his teacher and have some credit for his work. However, he is also aware of the potential consequences of his actions and tries to stay out of trouble. The lyrics also suggest a sense of frustration and boredom with the monotony and routine of everyday life, as the character has his head in the clouds and hasn't done anything noteworthy. The reference to brushing his teeth with soda and salt, which is an unusual and unconventional practice, further emphasizes the character's nonconformity and desire to do things differently. Overall, Soda And Salt is a song about individuality, curiosity, and the desire to challenge societal norms and expectations.
